AF&RS launches its wholetime firefighter recruitment campaign

Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) has launched a recruitment campaign to find its next generation of wholetime firefighters.

Being a firefighter is more than just fighting fires. There is so much variation to the role and you’re faced with something different every day. As well as responding to a wide range of emergencies, from road traffic collisions, firefighting, chemical incidents, rope, water, and animal rescue and providing medical care to those in need, you’ll also provide fire safety advice by visiting people’s homes, businesses, and schools.

Prospective firefighters will be able to take part in candidate registration and the eligibility screening from Monday, 6 January 2025. Please note, registrations have now closed. Following the initial part of the process, candidates will be invited to take part in the online questionnaires and ability tests, before being asked to complete the application form.

During the recruitment process, those interested in becoming a wholetime firefighter are encouraged to join AF&RS’s jobs mailing list to stay informed of the latest updates and guidance on the recruitment process.

Kayley Bridges, firefighter at Weston-super-Mare Fire Station and pictured below, said: “As a firefighter, I can help make someone’s worst day a bit more manageable. I like helping people and making an impact no matter how small that might be – it gives me a sense of purpose. It’s so much more than responding to incidents and I’ve been able to support the Service by delivering projects I’m passionate about.

“If you’re interested in joining AF&RS, I’d recommend visiting your local station and chatting to the crew, keeping an eye on our social media channels and information on the website and subscribing to the mailing list. Find out as much as you can in preparation for the application process.”

Joel Jackson, firefighter at Southmead Fire Station and pictured below, said: “I love the physical aspect of my role. We attend such a variety of incidents – from road traffic collisions to water rescues – and get to put in practice the training we’ve honed on the drill yard. I also enjoy getting out into the community and spreading awareness of fire safety.”

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Luke Gazzard said: “We are delighted to launch our wholetime firefighter recruitment campaign at the beginning of next year. We’re looking for individuals who care deeply about making a difference to our communities and the people we serve. If this sounds like you, we welcome your application and hope to see you join our inspiring colleagues at AF&RS.”

Information on the wholetime firefighter role, recruitment process and tips on how to be as successful as you can be during the application and interview process is available on the wholetime firefighter careers section to find out more.